Teachers and staff in Canutillo ISD returned from a summer break ready to focus on equity and results in student outcomes. The District kicked off the 2019-2020 school year with its biennial convocation and professional development conference Monday, August 5, 2019, at Canutillo High School.

According to District leaders, to continue their stance as a top-rated, public school district in the region, the spirited event is designed to inspire teachers whose job is among the most challenging and important professions. CISD academic leadership also prepared a two-day professional development conference that helps teachers focus on the highest student outcomes.

Canutillo ISD Superintendent Dr. Pedro Galaviz says that their job, as educators, is to ensure the equitable education of all students.

“At Canutillo, we make the most of the resources to provide equity and get the best results in student outcomes,” Galaviz said. “Just as first responders are on the front lines to protect and save lives, educators are the first to impact a child's experience and learning path.”

The theme was Equity & Results (ER). It featured some notable, inspirational speakers, and leading educational experts. The District heard from Dr. Art Markman, an Annabel Irion Worsham Centennial Professor of Psychology and Marketing at the University of Texas at Austin and experienced education consultant, John Fessenden from Lead4ward. A special presentation was also given by NAMI El Paso mental health advocates.

One special guest was U.S. Navy Master Chief Raina Hockenberry, an inspiring hero who was shot five times in Afghanistan and fought her way back to active duty. She has since won 16 gold medals in the Department of Defense Warrior Games. This year, Hockenberry was chosen as Sailor of the Year by Military Times magazine.

Also, the Council on Regional Economic Expansion and Educational Development (CREEED) awarded $10K to support four high school teachers in obtaining certification to teach dual credit courses in the district.

Classes in Canutillo began on Monday, August 12 as the District welcomed back more than 6,200 students. This year, Canutillo ISD celebrates 60 years since its establishment in 1959, and continues to venture for even more opportunities to grow and excel.